About two years ago, the TRC collaborated with about four other partners for various projects, Hotta said. That number is now closer to 40 and three were added in the past month. Beyond the initial $45 million investment for autonomous research, the research center is investing an additional $8 million in infrastructure upgrades, said Tim Leckey, TRC chief financial officer.

That will include a TRC Innovation Center with space for Ohio State laboratories, class rooms and distance learning and other office space. It will also include a customer residential building with workshops, office and conference space, and upgrades in the site’s safety systems.